Wetland Imagery in American Novels

We understand wetlands both as providers of resources and important ecological services, and of many hazards, a duality that complicates how we value them, leaving them vulnerable to destruction. In this study, Erik Kiviat used grounded theory to analyze our relationship to wetlands as expressed in fiction, looking for insights that could be useful in environmental management. He found the eleven most common themes, in order, were Transition, Place, Refuge, Beauty, Peace, Product, Mosquito, Discord, Danger, Decay and Sex. No wonder our relationship is complicated.